Legendary Uganda Cranes Left Winger Ibrahim Buwembo Dies

Former Uganda Cranes international and flying left winger, Ibrahim Mukalazi Buwembo, is dead.

The Coffee SC and Express FC ace passed away Friday, December 29, 2023.

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“Heartbroken to learn of the passing of Ibrahim Buwembo, a former colleague and formidable rival during our football playing days,” Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC coach, Mubiru Abdallah, said on X.

He added: “My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, the Uganda football fraternity, and the Mamba Clan.”

According to Mubiru, the late Buwembo’s skill, passion, and craftsmanship on the field were truly exceptional.

“He left an indelible mark on Ugandan football, earning respect and admiration from all who had the privilege to share the pitch with him and watch him play.”

The legend

In its August 2020 article on “wingers with sweet left foot”, Daily Monitor chronicled the feats of Buwembo and his teammates Kefa Kisala and Sula Kato.

According to the report, the trio possessed a deadly left foot in addition to having a bagful of tricks that made them the envy of other players in Uganda’s rich soccer history.

Buwembo, whose football career began at his home district of Masaka, was one of the most controversial players to grace the game.

Nicknamed the “Black Maradona”, Buwembo’s achievements speak for themselves.

Played for State House, Express, Coffee, Simba, Super Cubs and Buraim FC (Oman).

Won the Uganda Cup with Express in 2001.
In Simba side that reached Uganda Cup final but lost to Villa.

First summoned to Cranes in 1992 during an Independence Day friendly match against Ethiopia.

Scored his first Cranes goal on October 15, 1994 in a 1996 Afcon qualifier against Ethiopia.

Won the Cecafa title with the Cranes in 1992 in Tanzania.

Briefly coached Express in 1997 and was assistant to Leo Adraa in 2003.

Has facilitated and helped many Ugandan players go for semi-professional football in the Middle East and owns B1 Sports Ventures that deals with selling players to the gulf.